08-04-2023, 09:39 AM
For your specific use case and requirements, I would recommend considering the Synology DS423+ or the upcoming DS224+. Both of these NAS models would serve your photo/video storage needs without any hassle. The DS423+ can support 2 to 3 drives initially, allowing for easy and gradual expansion as your storage requirements grow. On the other hand, the DS224+ is an upcoming model that might be a great fit for your needs. Both NAS solutions offer ease of setup, low maintenance, and compatibility with iOS apps, including the Files app. Moreover, they can be accessed and mounted easily from both Mac and Linux systems without any extra drivers. Though some of the "Nice to have" features may not be available in these models, they are well within your budget of less than $300 with drives, making them excellent choices for your storage requirements.